We had the good fortune of connecting with Marchel’e Perkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marchel’e, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
As a woman entrepreneur I have heard many pieces of advice. Some conventional advice I agree with, and a few I disagree with. But, the #1 piece of advice I have heard along the way is to quit your 9-5 and work your business full-time with no steady income coming in. If you have bills; car note, mortgage, rent, childcare, medical bills the bills will come every month even if you only had one customer that month. I totally disagree with this statement because as a business owner one will need working capital for the lofty expenses that will incur.

My advice for any new entrepreneur is to have a plan. Not just a business plan, but a daily operational plan. Ask yourself, how much money do I need to have saved to quit my 9-5? How much revenue does my business need to earn in a set time so, I can pay myself a salary? How many hours can I put into my business if I am working a 9-5. Hint. The number should be the same amount of hours a week, (sleep when you die, lol).

New business owners should not apply for a loan, rack up charges on a credit card but, should use their 9-5 job earnings as their “investor”. Take funds that you have earned, and put those funds into your business. Take time to build your company at slow steady pace. Jumping off the porch and starting a business off in debt will keep you in the hole. Next, one should save and re-invest the money earned from their customers for one full year.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When its time to curate a look most think I just go to the mall, grab what looks good and matches. But, creating a look begins with a mood board to brainstorm and arrange thoughts. I take into account the body shape, event, sex, patterns, fabric, and season when putting a look on a client. When a person look good, they feel good. As a stylist I get excited to see a look come together, and my client is wearing a smile. My job as a personal stylist to make life easy, and stylish for everyone who hires Elements of Style by Marchel’e.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestfriend was visiting the Atlanta area, the first task on our itinerary is to shop Seychelles Clothing. I am the lead fashion stylist for Seychelles Clothing and myself, or another stylist will come to your hotel or wherever you are, and bring your wardrobe for the week. You will have fun shopping the looks pulled specifically for you. Your style, your size, and what will make you look your best from head to toe. Once you are dressed we will then take the clothing you just purchased, and head to your photoshoot. A personal photoshoot that will make you feel like a celebrity. We will go and visit other women’s boutiques, grab some food, and explore nature.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to recognize my husband for his continued supports and efforts that has been a huge part of my success. He is always there when I need him most. Not only in our marriage, but in my business endeavors also. He brings a creative and sometimes opposing view to a project that helps bring my vision to life a bit more effective. When you have someone you can count on, you can’t help but to be grateful. He is my listening ear when needed, creative director, photographer, brainstorming partner and most importantly. LOVER.

Website: https://www.seychellesclothing.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stylebymarchele/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stylebymarchele

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCqOK9opCv01Bjg9gXcwptQ

Other: Formula EOSBM on Youtube. Instagram & Facebook @stylebymarchele Shop www.SeychellesClothing.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.